Here is the most recent advice on used automobiles from a Toyota/Lexus mechanic, including which used Lexus models are the best to buy and which ones you should avoid.
We had previously learned about the history of Lexus and whether Lexus is simply a rebadged Toyota from a Toyota mechanic. Today, that same mechanicwho has years of experience working on Toyota and Lexus vehiclescomes to us with his recommendations for the best used Lexus models for used car shoppers, as well as his choice of the worst models that should be avoided due to inadvertent engineering and design flaws on occasion.
Having said that, the following is a synopsis of the video’s highlights:
- Top Pick #1: The highly reliable Lexus ES350, which is based on the Avalon.
- Top Pick #2: The Lexus RX350, namely all versions made in 2010 and later as problems with power steering fluid leaks plagued early models.
- Top Pick #3: Lexus IS350very dependable but with somewhat higher maintenance expenses than Top Picks #1 and #2.
- Top Pick #4: Lexus GS350, all models, excluding the hybrid model because it was one of the first hybrids to have some reliability concerns.
- Lexus GX and LX are top picks in the truck category. The LX is a Landcruiser in comparison to the GX, which is effectively a V8 Toyota 4Runner. In his perspective, these two are “investment cars” that you can never go wrong with when purchasing a secondhand one.
- The best products to ever come out of Toyota/Lexus land are the Lexus LS 430 2-door and SC430, which you can anticipate to get an additional 100,000 miles out of compared to other comparable, highly rated Toyotas.
In This Article...
When is the ideal time to buy a Lexus?
Here Are The Best Used Lexus Models (2 Models to Avoid)
- The Lexus CT from 2011 to 2017.
- 7 Best: Lexus IS, 20092013.
- 6 Best: Lexus LX 20092017.
- The Lexus GS from 2013 to 2017.
- 4 Best Lexus RX, 2009-2015.
- 3 Best: Lexus ES 20092012.
- 20072011 Lexus LS: The worst.
- 20072011 Lexus HS is the worst.
Which Lexus is the most dependable?
According to a Consumer Reports study, the Lexus GX was rated as the most dependable car on the road for 2022. This roomy luxury SUV can handle off-road conditions, making it a favorite of families and adventurers.
When is a Lexus IS not to be purchased?
Here are some of the most typical Lexus ES 350 issues, especially for the problematic model years, 2007 in particular. Although these are the most frequent difficulties, that does not imply that they are widespread.
Melting Dashboard
Similar to other 2007 Lexus vehicles, this one has some difficulties with the dashboard and other inside plastics. The plastic on the dash of the 2007 Lexus ES 350 can actively melt in the sun, which is one of the car’s worst issues and a major reason why 2007 is one of the Lexus ES 2007 years to stay away from.
It’s problematic for a number of reasons. One reason is because a melted dashboard is unsightly. Additionally, it may impair the performance of any dash-mounted equipment, such as your car’s airbags and interior electronics.
Additionally, melting plastics can create harmful VOCs that could harm consumers and contribute to the situation.
GPS Failures
Another frequent complaint about the Lexus ES 350 is that the GPS stops working, but thankfully this problem is not as serious as the melting dashboard. Early iterations of the GPS system had a few problems, however more recent models have fewer faults with the technology.
Oil Leaks
Additionally, there have been occasional allegations of excessive or unexpected oil leaks in the Lexus ES 350, particularly in older generations. Unfortunately, oil leaks and oil consumption are only some of the issues with the ES 350’s engine. More newer models don’t appear to have as many issues.
Miscellaneous Engine Problems
Avoid the Lexus ES 350 model years because they have a number of other engine difficulties, such as gasket and seal issues, ticking and banging noises, and other internal engine problems.
These issues range in severity and root reasons; some don’t significantly affect customers, while others call for expensive, urgent fixes.
Fortunately, releases after 2009 have these issues at far lower rates than the first two years, just like with the other Lexus ES 350 issues.
Young and experienced drivers equally are impacted by winter driving. To help you get from A to B as securely as possible, we’ve put together a list of the best automobiles for snow.
Windows Opening On Their Own
This final common issue is a problem, but it’s not as big of a problem as some of the other problems we’ve spoken about. In specifically the early years, the Lexus ES 350’s windows and moonroof occasionally opened by themselves.
Most of the time, even after mistakenly opening, the windows and moonroof can still be closed. Nevertheless, depending on the weather outside, the traffic situation, and how shocked the drivers are when the windows open on their own, this could pose a safety issue.
Can Lexus match Toyota’s durability?
Again, it is challenging to get a definitive response because there are so many vehicles between Lexus and Toyotas.
But it’s undeniable that both Lexus and Toyota vehicles have a very long lifespan. According to client testimonials, both the Toyota and Lexus may go up to 300,000 miles between repairs.
In the end, if you have to select between a Toyota and a Lexus, durability is not a factor. But we can tell you that the Lexus ES and Toyota Sequoia are the models most praised for their durability.
Your budget is something to think about while deciding between a Lexus and a Toyota. And perhaps your preference for luxury.
Do Lexus issues frequently arise?
Overall, Lexus automobiles are dependable. The Lexus car is well regarded in the most trustworthy consumer surveys, which increases its dependability and toughness. There are reported problems here and there, just like with every automaker. However, Lexus is not just reasonably priced for a luxury automobile but also has fewer problems overall and reduced repair expenses.
Toyota, one of the most reputable automakers and a name known for its durable engines and high-performance handling and steering, is the manufacturer of the Lexus automobile. With vehicles that have strong engines, outstanding features, and fantastic performance from the smallest streets to the toughest motorways, Lexus pushes innovation and design to new heights.
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What Lexus model has the highest sales?
RX Lexus. The Lexus RX, a mid-size crossover SUV, is the most popular luxury SUV in the US. The RX is the ideal combination of the size and space of an SUV with the incredibly smooth performance and handling of a sedan. It is available with either a conventional gas or hybrid engine.
Do used Lexus cost a much to maintain?
In comparison, maintenance and repairs are affordable because Lexus is Toyota’s premium arm. For its low ownership expenses, Lexus received an overall ranking from RepairPal of sixth. Owners of Lexus automobiles pay $551 on maintenance and repairs annually, while expenses rise as cars get older.
You can choose from a number of options to manage your Lexus maintenance costs. To minimize high maintenance expenses, you might want to consider extending your warranty. Although Lexus has its own program, there are several third-party alternatives available that may be more economical.
The most well-known providers were assessed, and we chose a few that stood out above the others. All of our suggestions for third-party extended auto warranties scored highly in terms of features, plan alternatives, industry reputation, and customer support.
What are some typical Lexus issues?
The most frequent faults reported by Lexus owners are oil leaks, melted dashboards and door panels, frequent Check Engine light lighting, PCM storage of specific codes, and airbag-related problems.
The 2009 Lexus RX 350 has received 122 complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since its release, making it the company’s worst offender overall. The 2011 LS and the 2015 ES are recognized as the second and third most reliable Lexus models ever, respectively, while the Lexus GS consistently experiences few issues throughout all model years.
For a more detailed overview of the most typical Lexus issues in still-for-sale cars, see the chart below.
Which automaker has the fewest issues?
According to J.D. Power’s 2022 Initial Quality Study, Buick new automobiles had the fewest faults overall. Here is how 32 additional brands fared.
Do you frequently veer into the opposing lane or shout at Siri when you’re driving? Do you stab at your touchscreen?
According to the most recent U.S. Initial Quality Study by J.D. Power, initial vehicle quality has worsened as a result of the pandemicproblems such supply chain concerns and record-high vehicle pricing.
In the 36 years that the research and data organization has been conducting the survey, it was discovered that automobile troubles hit a record level. The industry had an 11% increase in the number of issues per 100 vehicles compared to 2021 statistics.
The study is based on responses from 84,165 respondents who purchased or leased a new car for the 2022 model year at the beginning of the ownership period. There are 223 questions in the poll covering entertainment, vehicle controls and displays, exterior and interior features, driving assistance, the powertrain, seating, driving experience, and climate.
Infotainment systems, such as Apple (AAPL) CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, touchscreens, voice recognition systems, inconsistent audio loudness, and not enough outlets or USB ports, according to J.D. Power, accounted for six of the top 10 difficulties in that category.
Over the previous year, issues with driver-assistance systems also rose, with lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist proving to be the most difficult to use.
More problems were reported by plug-in hybrid and completely electric car owners than by gas-powered car owners. Gasoline-powered automobiles had an average of 175 faults per 100 vehicles, compared to 240 for EVs and 239 for plug-in hybrids.
Are Lexus breakdowns frequent?
With a reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5, Lexus is ranked 7th among all automobile brands out of 32. This evaluation is based on the average of 345 different models. A Lexus has above average ownership expenses because its average yearly repair cost is $551. The average Lexus owner visits a repair facility 0.5 times annually, and there is an 8% chance that the repair will be significant.